Im new here, and Im sorry if this is a newbie question.

I have a Sony STR-DE935 right now which i purchased new a couple years ago... I want to upgrade... Im getting into DTS audio and AC3 encoded music. I like the idea of 4.1 and 6.1 channel encoded music. Im looking for a receiver that will allow me to set up, say, 4.1 channel, or 6.1 channel audio, but also allow me to use ALL the speakers for regular listening.

I have a pair of Boston Acoustics A150s, 4 Paradigm Atoms and an awsome overpowered home-built sub. I would like to select 4.1 channel surround sound for the Paradigms. 6.1 channel surround with all speakers, Stereo with just the Bostons, or "Really Freaking loud" with all 6 speakers in stereo, when i dont have 6 channel encoded music.

I have played with some newer 7.1 channel receivers and all are adamant that when your listening to a stereo, you only get your two front speakers. Unless you enable the processing and send echoe or reverb to the other speakers. I just want all my speakers on as either left or right.

If i have to go separates thats ok, but my budget is ~$1200. I would like as much clean power as i can get. I also dont really need video switching. And best of all, if what im trying to do is a common "Feature", please let me know what this feature is called so i can search for it.

Thanks,
Lap